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Social media campaign raises $1 million to keep historically black women’s college open

A historically black college for women in North Carolina has raised more than $1 million as part of its push to raise enough money to remain open.

Bennett College, located in Greensboro, N.C., must raise $5 million by Feb. 1 after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges voted earlier this month to end the school's accreditation, NBC News reported.

The commission cited persistent budget issues for Bennett College, and the school had already been on probation for two years, NBC reported. The college was previously on probation from 2001 to 2003 because of financial issues.

The latest threat of closure has spurred a wave of fundraising support from alumni and celebrities.

Jussie Smollett, an actor on the show "Empire," and his brother, Jake, shared a photo on social media earlier this month wearing shirts that state "Stand With Bennett." Others have shared a similar hashtag on social media to drum up support for the fundraiser.

We still have 41 days until February 1st so please keep posting on social media platforms using #StandWithBennett and please keep asking friends and family to give to Bennett.Thank you all! pic.twitter.com/0VqoRecJnz

Stand With Bennett College. Bennett College has stood as an oasis where I have grew from a girl to now a woman. I thank God for my Sisters who have impacted me. As an all Women’s Institution I take pride in my Institution and we need help in saving our school ! #StandWithBennettpic.twitter.com/vz4bBVwNjb